Anti-Inflammatory Enzymes

How Natural Anti-Inflammatory Supplements Support Joint Health

Enzymes play a pivotal role in countless biochemical processes throughout the body, ensuring the smooth functioning of your cells, tissues, and organs. These proteins act as catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. From digestion to DNA replication, enzymes are the molecular responsible for your body's functioning. Anti-inflammatory enzyme supplements, also called systemic enzymes, are a subset of enzymes that play a unique role in maintaining health and balance within the body. Unlike digestive enzymes that assist in breaking down food, systemic enzymes work throughout the body, targeting inflammation at its core.

Enzymes function by binding to specific molecules, known as substrates, and facilitating chemical reactions that would otherwise occur too slowly or not at all. The lock-and-key model illustrates perfectly the precision with which enzymes recognize and bind to their substrates, ensuring that only the correct reactions are catalyzed.

What Is Inflammation? How Inflammation Impacts Your Well-Being

Inflammation is a natural and necessary response to injury or infection. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can cause a variety of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and autoimmune disorders. This is where anti-inflammatory enzymes step in, acting as modulators to regulate the inflammatory response and promote a balanced immune system.

Which Enzymes Are Found In Anti Inflammatory Supplements?

Most anti-inflammatory enzymes fall into the category of proteolytic enzymes (also called proteases, proteinases, and peptidases), which means they excel at breaking down proteins. This proteolytic activity is crucial for reducing inflammation, as it helps eliminate excess fibrin – a protein involved in the formation of scar tissue and inflammation. By breaking down these proteins, anti-inflammatory enzymes promote tissue repair and inhibit the progression of chronic inflammatory conditions. Some of the most well-known and studied proteolytic enzymes include bromelain, papain, serrapeptase, trypsin, and chymotrypsin.

It’s also important to note that anti-inflammatory enzymes supplements offer benefits that extend beyond their role in modulating inflammation. In fact, they have been shown to improve circulation, enhance immune function, and even protect cardiovascular health. Indeed, by maintaining a balanced inflammatory response, these enzymes contribute to overall health and well-being and support the body's natural ability to heal and regenerate.

Key Health Benefits of Natural Anti Inflammatory Supplements

• Clears Mucus Accumulation
• Helps Reduce The Formation Of Scar Tissue
• Promotes Neurological Health 
• Protects Against Atherosclerosis And Strokes (Prevents Blood Clot Formation)
• Reduces Pain/Joint Pain & Inflammation
• Diminishes Respiratory Infections

Buying & Using Anti-Inflammatory Enzymes

Anti-inflammatory enzyme supplements come in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders. Common types of anti inflammatory supplements, include:

bromelain - derived from pineapples, bromelain is known for its robust anti-inflammatory properties

Papain - obtained from papaya, papain is another proteolytic enzyme commonly found in supplements and has been shown to promote protein digestion. 

Trypsin and chymotrypsin - enzymes produced by the pancreas of humans and other animals, are also available in supplement form. Both have been demonstrated to accelerate the healing of wounds, injuries, and surgical procedures thanks to their anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, fibrinolytic, antioxidant, and anti-infective properties. Moreover, serrapeptase, derived from silkworm bacteria, has been extensively studied and demonstrated to possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. 

Anti-inflammatory enzymes are often sold in combination blends to provide a broader spectrum of benefits.

Cautions To Consider When Taking Enzyme Supplements

While generally well tolerated when used as indicated, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea or diarrhea, when taking proteolytic enzymes. Allergic reactions are rare but possible, especially in individuals with known allergies to certain enzymes. 

Additionally, proteolytic enzymes may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those scheduled for surgery should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating proteolytic enzymes into their regimen. 

Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, should also speak to their healthcare provider before adding anti-inflammatory enzymes to their daily routine, as their safety in these populations may not be well-established.

Back to Top ↑